UN elects Iran to key committee overseeing organization's global priorities despite criticism

The UN General Assembly elected Iran to the Committee for Programme and Coordination with 144 votes, despite criticism over human rights abuses and support for terrorism. Israel and UN Watch condemned the move, with UN Watch's Hillel Neuer calling it a 'travesty of justice.'

The United Nations General Assembly elected Iran to the UN Committee for Programme and Coordination on Wednesday, granting Tehran a seat on a key body that reviews and coordinates the organization's programs and priorities. Iran received 144 votes in favor in a secret-ballot election. The election drew criticism over Iran's human rights record and support for terrorist organizations. Israel raised objections during the session, accusing Arab groups of politically motivated votes against Israeli candidates. UN Watch Executive Director Hillel Neuer condemned the election as a 'travesty of justice,' noting Iran's record on women's rights and terrorism prevention.